Working with Premier Chris Minns, we’re making the rules on e-bike usage clearer and our shared spaces safer with new changes that target illegal ‘fat bikes’ and unsafe riding. 

This includes seizing and crushing illegal e-bikes to stop the use of high-powered and doctored bikes that perform more like motorbikes than bicycles and giving NSW Police expanded powers to do so.

We’re also investing in new dyno units that measure whether the empower output and torque of an e-bike is beyond the legal maximum. 

This is part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to ensure e-bikes and e-devices are a safe, convenient and sustainable way to travel. 

WE’RE MAKING THE RULES CLEARER

The Minns Labor Government is acting to reduce confusion for families, retailers and riders by:

• Setting a clearer e-bike motor limit of 250W so legal e-bikes operate like pedal-assist bicycles, not small electric motorbikes;

• Closing loopholes that let ‘motorbike-level’ devices be used as though they are bicycles; and

• Improving consumer information at the point of sale so buyers understand what is legal, and where devices can be used.

TARGETING ILLEGAL ‘FAT BIKES’ AND UNSAFE RIDING

Permitted e-bikes already have power and speed limits and rely primarily on pedaling. The biggest risks come from illegal, higher-powered devices and unsafe behaviour.

NSW Police can issue penalties and seize illegal devices, and Transport for NSW is strengthening education and enforcement tools as e-micromobility use grows.

Thank you to everyone who has raised concerns with me about the use of high-powered, non-compliant devices.

There is more to do but these practical changes will keep e-bikes safe, legal and fit for our shared paths, while supporting people who want a cleaner, cheaper way to get around the Shellharbour electorate.